Boiler breakdowns to affect 133,000 in New Year – how to ensure it doesn't happen to you

CHRISTMAS and the New Year are the busiest periods for British Gas engineers, but the busy season means people often forget to prepare their home for the winter weather. What can you do to avoid your boiler breaking?

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We recommend running your heating for at least an hour a day when it’s cold outside

Sunny Tolansky, British Gas engineer

Their engineers will be working across the country on New Year’s Day to help those whose boiler may breakdown or if their pipes have frozen.

Before the Polar Vortex hits, the energy company is urging people to take precautionary steps to avoid their boiler breaking.

Sunny Tolansky, a British Gas engineer said: “Our research shows that having no heating or hot water during the colder months is people’s worst winter disaster in the home.

“New Year tends to be chilly and it’s always a busy time for callouts, especially when people who’ve been away over Christmas haven’t kept their heating and hot water systems ticking over. We recommend running your heating for at least an hour a day when it’s cold outside.”

He also shared the tips he has been giving to customers to ensure their heating system continues to run smoothly.

Bleed your radiators

Sunny said: “This may seem obvious, but you wouldn’t believe how many people forget. If you haven’t used the heating for a while, air can enter the system and form bubbles at the top of your radiators, which stops them from working efficiently.”

Block the breeze

The British Gas engineer advised: “Your windows and doors should seal properly but for those that don’t, there are lots of options to help keep cold air out and warm air in. Fitting draught excluders – available from most DIY stores – is a quick, easy and affordable way to cut down on your energy bills and draught-proof your home.

There are precautions you can take to ensure your boiler doesn't break (Image: GETTY)

“Letterbox brushes, chimney balloons and even keyhole coverings can also make a real difference.”

Maximise the heat

“Putting your sofa in front of a radiator may keep the best spot in the house extra toasty, but it will absorb heat that could be warming the rest of the room."

Look after your boiler

Sunny added: “Stay ahead of the weather and make sure your boiler’s working properly before the first frost. For peace of mind, why not protect your boiler, heating, electrics and plumbing with one of British Gas’s Homecare products? You can have your boiler serviced every year from 40p per day.”

Insulate your hot water system

“Stopping heat from escaping doesn’t just save you money. When temperatures drop below zero, it’s important to make sure that the water inside your pipes doesn’t freeze and cause them to burst. Lagging materials are available from most DIY stores – an easy, cost-effective solution for protecting your water tank and pipes,” the engineer recommended.

Be energy smart

“With smart meters, you’ll be able to see how much energy you’re using in pounds and pence, helping you to identify where you can make savings during peak energy season.”

Install a carbon monoxide detector

Sunny continued: “You can’t hear it, see it, taste it or smell it, and it kills around 30 people a year. Fortunately, carbon monoxide poisoning is preventable. Faulty central heating systems are one of the most common sources of carbon monoxide in the home – as well getting your boiler checked once a year, it’s essential to have a carbon monoxide alarm fitted.”

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“Hanging curtains and placing rugs on hard floors are some of the simplest and most effective ways to keep your home warm this winter. Thick material (the thicker the better) prevents heat from being lost through windows and doors – just don’t forget to open your curtains during the day so that the sun can do some of the work.”

Use tech to control your heating remotely

Sunny also revealed the benefits of controlling your heating remotely, explaining: “With Hive Active Heating, you can turn the heating on when you’re coming home from work, so the house warms up in time for your arrival – equally, if you’re running late for any reason, having the flexibility to control your heating on the go means you’ll never waste money on energy you’re not using.”

Get the help you’re entitled to

“It’s worth finding out if you’re eligible for extra assistance with your energy bills, especially at this time of year. £140 winter rebates are available through the Warm Home Discount scheme, and face-to-face advice, financial support and grants are available from the British Gas Energy Trust (even if you’re not a British Gas customer). Customers who need an extra hand with the practical side of things can sign up to be on the Priority Services Register, for additional services such as different bill formats and advanced warnings if their energy supply is facing disruption.”